Posted by Jennifer on February 10, 2009 – 8:46 pm
When you think of a wedding that is not along the lines of tradition, tradition being ‘the big white church wedding’, you may think of sandy beaches, blue sea and exotic locations. Well The Independent has published its 50 best places to get married and the UK has taken 7 spots in the top ten. At number 1 is The Westminster Register Office in London which offers a choice of beautifully decorated rooms and has many claims to fame. It was the wedding venue of Paul McCartney and Linda Eastman, Ringo Starr and Barbara Bach and Liam Gallagher and Patsy Kensit.
The London Eye in London and The Balmoral, Edinburgh are at number two and three and both venues offer breathtaking views and intimate ceremonies with a difference.
Posted by Jennifer on February 10, 2009 – 8:09 pm
Hotelguru.com is offering a 25% discount on holidays at the Bedruthan Steps Hotel until the 31st March 2009 (Sun-Thurs). The hotel is Cornwall’s Hotel of the Year 2008. It offers amazing views of the sea and glorious sandy beach and is surrounded by stunning natural landscape. The light and contemporary guest rooms are comfortable and relaxing. Each room is well equipped with a range of modern amenities including broadband Internet access.
There are 2 restaurants to choose from – one being adults only. Both restaurants serve a wide variety of delicious cuisine in a relaxing environment. Enjoy a swim in the large indoor or outdoor swimming pools or even have a go at surfing! There are many activities to choose from.
For ultimate relaxation, visit the Ocean Spa which offers a variety of luxurious treatments, tranquil surroundings and wonderful views of the beach.
Posted by Jennifer on February 10, 2009 – 8:00 pm
In current times of doom and gloom it is fantastic news that Pontins are investing a massive £50m in improving their holiday camps and as a result a hug 2,000 jobs will be created. Pontins Chief Executive, Ian Smith claims that bookings are up as much as 30% this year.
According to The Guardian Pontins offers three or four night breaks from as little as £20 per person. Pontins holiday camps can be found throughout the UK in the following locations:
- Somerset
- Camber Sands, Sussex
- Pakefield, Suffolk
- Prestatyn Sands, North Wales
- Southport
- Blackpool
Posted by Paul on February 10, 2009 – 1:24 pm
From 14th to 22nd February 2009, Brodsworth Hall and Gardens in Doncaster will be hosting its first ever Snowdrop Festival – but with a twist! Hundreds of thousands of snowdrops have been planted over the last five years, creating a stunning collection of blooms – but Brodsworth Hall wants more! Visitors will be invited to come and help plant 50,000 more snowdrops ‘in the green’ for an instantly expanded display!
Posted by Paul on February 9, 2009 – 11:58 pm
Ever since the famous Lord Bristol went searching for luxurious experiences in 1766, his name has become synonymous with the finer things in life. Today has seen the city reclaim this legend, with the re-launch of a landmark city hotel following a multimillion pound renovation. The Bristol Hotel has opened its doors for trading under its new name and features 187 rooms and suites; situated on the historic harbourside in the heart of Bristol, it is surrounded by the very best of Bristol’s commerce, Old City and maritime history.
The new design ethos is chic and contemporary, featuring both local and global design brands such as B&B Italia, George Smith Furniture, lamps by Porta Romana and bespoke fabric by GP & J Baker. These sleek and fresh interiors run through to the stylish River Grille restaurant positioned on the waters edge. Natural light fills the room through floor to ceiling glass windows. The menu features a selection of cuisine ranging from some of the finest beef cuts sourced directly from Glastonbury through to rope grown mussels cooked in cider, finishing the palette with Vahlrhona chocolate mousse.
The Bristol Hotel is a member of The Doyle Collection, a luxury hotel group that comprises eleven hotels in six cities around the world.
Posted by Paul on February 9, 2009 – 4:54 pm
Men are being urged to take inspiration from Scotland’s national poet this Valentine’s Day. With romance high on the agenda, most men might be considering some grand gesture like a bunch of carnations to declare their undying love. But, Scotland’s panel of experts on all things Burns-related suggest that taking a leaf out of the Bard’s book this Homecoming year might just be the key to helping the romantically-challenged to win over the fairer sex.
As part of Homecoming’s Valentine’s Day celebrations, Zig Zag: The Path’s of Robert Burns exhibition opens in Aberdeen on 14th February 2009. The exhibition features the manuscript of Burns most iconic love poem, Ae Fond Kiss, the wedding ring of Jean Armour and various love letters from Burns himself.
Nat Edwards, of the National Burns Collection believes it shows a softer side to the bard. “As far as romance goes, Burns was highly accomplished. His love poetry is recited the world over while his letters, some of which form part of the exhibition, show a more personal side of his romantic life and a confident character who knew that the best way to win a woman’s heart was to wear his own on his sleeve.”
Valentine’s Day will also see the opening of Creative Burns at the Dick Institute, Kilmarnock which explores the importance of Burns as a creative producer and his influence as an inspiration for artists and writers working today. Creative Burns features new commissioned work by Timorous Beasties, Adam Proctor and Michael Visocchi, poet Rab Wilson and the composer Gavin Reid.
Posted by Matt on February 9, 2009 – 12:51 pm
The National Trust is trying hard to raise £6.3 million to prevent the historic Seaton Deleval Hall in Northumberland from being split up and sold to private buyers. The hall is in desperate need of attention to restore it to its former splendour. It is regarded as one of the greatest historic treasures in the North East and trustees are desperate for the money to be raised.
The National Trust has announced an eBay auction of items to try and raise more money. Items on offer include “unique” experiences , such as behind-the-scenes tours of properties and private dinners.
Posted by Paul on February 8, 2009 – 12:14 am
So say the readers of Wanderlust magazine who voted the West Highland line as the top rail journey in the world, ahead of 400 others including the Trans-Siberian Railway and a Peruvian rail journey from Cuzco to Machu Picchu. The West Highland line covers a total of 164 miles, taking in Loch Long, Loch Lomond, Loch Etive and Loch Eil along the way, as well as Scotland and the UK’s highest mountain, Ben Nevis, and the 21-arch viaduct at Glenfinnan – a sight familiar to Harry Potter fans around the world. The beaches at the western end of the route are known for their appearance in the much older, but much-loved film ‘Local Hero’ which starred Burt Lancaster. From here, on a clear day, you are sometimes treated to views of the islands of Eigg, Muck and Rum.
Posted by Paul on February 5, 2009 – 3:04 pm
Our good friends at De Vere Venues have kindly donated this month’s prize for the UKhotel competition. The prize is a luxury short break at Wokefield Park, a De Vere Venue near Reading, Berkshire. Just head for the competition page, enter your details and cross your fingers – you could soon be enjoying the high life at one of their luxurious rooms in beautiful Berkshire countryside…
Posted by Paul on February 4, 2009 – 5:00 pm
Treat your Mum to something special this Mother’s Day, 22nd March 2009, as the Gleneagles Hotel, Perthshire offers a special Sunday night break including full Scottish breakfast, use of The Club leisure facilities and the choice of a round of golf or a 55 minute spa treatment each. Their Mother’s Day Treat includes:
- Overnight accommodation in a luxury room
- A round of golf or a 55 minute spa treatment
- Full Scottish breakfast
- Use of The Club leisure facilities
The rate is £239.79 per room, per night, inclusive of VAT and the offer is valid until 30th April 2009, subject to availability. The offer excludes the festive season and Easter period. Please note that as the golf is fully complimentary to guests staying on this offer, there is no refund available for non-play. Golf or spa cannot be substituted by any other activity. Rates are subject to availability and may not be combined with any other offer.
